Organizational Architecture is proud to share another successful executive search partnership...this time with the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library Board of Trustees as they selected their next Director.
The Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library, known as Heights Libraries, has been a cornerstone of learning, culture, and community connection since its origins in 1921. Starting as the Cleveland Heights Public Library in the basement of Coventry School, it has evolved into a vibrant school district public library system serving the diverse residents of Cleveland Heights and University Heights, Ohio. With four conveniently located branches...Lee Road, Coventry, Noble, and University Heights...it strives to be a welcoming gathering place, providing equitable access to information, innovative programs, lifelong learning opportunities, and resources for all ages.
Following the announcement of Director Nancy Levin's retirement after 17 years of dedicated service, the Board of Trustees launched a nationwide search for her successor. They sought a partner with deep expertise in public library leadership recruitment to ensure a transparent, thorough, and inclusive process. Organizational Architecture was selected to guide the Board through every phase of the search...from stakeholder consultations and candidate sourcing to interview facilitation and final selection...ensuring alignment with the library's mission, values, and community needs.
Board of Trustees President Annette Iwamoto said:
Selecting a new Executive Director is one of the most critical decisions a library board can make, and we needed a trusted partner to navigate this important transition. Organizational Architecture exceeded our expectations throughout the process.
They took the time to deeply understand our library system, our communities, and the leadership qualities essential for our future success. Their collaborative and transparent approach incorporated meaningful input from staff and the broader community. Through clear communication and thoughtful guidance, we felt informed and confident at every step and stayed on track to ensure a smooth leadership transition, which was further strengthened by OA’s onboarding support.
The result is the appointment of an exceptional Executive Director who embodies our goals and vision. We're thankful to OA for their partnership in achieving this milestone.
The culmination of this effort was the appointment of Gale Koritansky as the new Director. With over 20 years of public library experience in urban and suburban settings, Gale most recently served as Executive Director of the Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, where she led major construction projects, developed strategic plans, boosted circulation and outreach, joined the CLEVNET consortium, and launched a Bookmobile service. Gale's proven leadership and commitment to inclusive, community-focused services position her to advance Heights Libraries' role as a vital resource for the region.
Organizational Architecture is the trusted partner of over forty public libraries as well as state library associations across the United States for human resources consulting, compensation studies, executive recruiting, performance management, and leadership development. If your library needs support in these areas, contact us to learn more.